The fall and winter seasons are rapidly approaching, which means many viral and bacterial infections may affect our children.  This blog discusses when a simple cold becomes concerning and when your child should be evaluated by a provider.

A common cold is caused by a virus that has the following symptoms:

• — Develops during the fall and or winter months.
• — Low-grade fever (100.4F or higher) but resolves in 3-7 days. Controlled with Tylenol or Ibuprofen.
• — Runny nose.

— Fatigue, body aches, and chills.

• — Coughing and upper airway congestion.
• — Irritability.

Allergies are caused by allergens that are found in the environment such as pollen, mold, trees, pets, and smoke. People who experience allergies have symptoms such as:

• — Stuffy nose/difficult to breathe through the nostrils.
• — Sneezing.
• — Watery and or dry eyes.
• — Cough.
• — Usually, no fever is present.

A Concerning Cold is when symptoms are:

• — Acute fever 100.4F and/or higher and not being controlled with Ibuprofen or Motrin for more than 24-36 hours of any age.
• — Infants less than 3 months with a rectal temp 100.4F for 24 hours.
• — Changes in breathing pattern such as nose flaring, shortness of breath, wheezing, and fatigued.
• — Decrease in activities and or playing.
• — Sore throat.
• — Decrease in eating and drinking.
• — Ear Pain.

Frequent handwashing with anti-bacterial soap and warm water is the best way to prevent the spread of infections. Some other methods to prevent the spread of infection is to cover sneezes and coughs with a tissue, wear a mask and avoid groups when your child experienced any of these symptoms. Also, disinfect surfaces regularly with germicides. 

Other ways are to vaccinate according to age group.

Be a Superhero! Prevent the Spread!

 If you have any questions, please contact Pediatric Heroes Primary Care Clinic at 210-625-5708 or visit this website.